Friday 8th January ... Elvis Birthday! We have some big fans within our home so we couldn't miss the Kings birthday. We dressed up, sang and danced to all of his songs and enjoyed some classic American snacks. 

The Westbourne residents and staff have been enjoying their January theme of Scotland with some wonderful Scottish dancing together. With two steps forward, two steps back and then round in a circle there was lots of laughter. All finished off with a discussion on Scottish scenery and our favourite memories, it created a lovely vibrant atmosphere for all to take part in. Happy January everyone.

This month, residents have made a start on their 'life story' books! So far, we've included some life history, reminiscence and old photographs. Everyone has loved decorating their books and we can't wait to see the finished results! Here's Kate and Wendy painting their books. 

We know that music has many positives including better health through the enjoyment of listening, dancing and signing. We don't usually colour coordinate the musical instruments to our clothing though! 

Whilst we may not be able to go and see Barry Manilow in concert we can always shake our tail feathers and the maracas and sing our heart out to Copacabana. 

One of our residents enjoys poetry so we went through all the books she has and chose ones that she can remember and recite. She likes in particular ones that she knows well and often recites them. This gives her a sense of achievement. 

Today it snowed so we thought we would take the opportunity and give the residents a feel of the great outdoors by bringing the snowballs inside to them. Thinking that it would bring back memories of wintry walks in the snow and childhood memories. It was met with mixed feelings but I think it was a great success as many had fond memories of their childhood antics in the snow. Many wanted to touch the snow, some enjoyed the experience and it gave them a chance to reminisce.  

We have been donated beautiful sensory hand knitted blankets for our residents and we would like to say a big thank you all at the Leyton village craft group. We very much appreciate your support and wish to say thank you for your kind donation our residents love them! 

We had a fun time making our new year 2021 calendars while we discussed our new year resolutions. We decided life is too short to not be excessive with glitter!

Today at Troutbeck we have been celebrating the chocolatiers of York, Birmingham and Bristol.